Car becomes an iPhone extension
CONNECTIVITY within cars is about to step up a level. Every time a new car is launched, manufacturers talk about improving features which make vehicles mobile communication devices.
Now Apple has come to the fore bringing all the features and services familiar to iPad, iPhone or iPod users directly into the car.
Apple has joined forces with Ferrari, Mercedes-Benz and Volvo to spearhead the new initiative, with future support expected from BMW, Ford, General Motors , Honda, Hyundai, Jaguar Land Rover, Kia, Mitsubishi, Nissan, Peugeot, Citroen, Subaru, Suzuki and Toyota.
Called Apple CarPlay, it uses a specially-developed interface that allows drivers to use voice and steering wheel controls to access Apple features and services, ensuring the entire interaction is always safe and easy to use.
This includes voice activation and functions such as maps.
It will also allow greater access to apps such as Pandora, Spotify and Stitcher, where users can stream internet radio and muic.
In announcing its partnership this week, Volvo said the newly-designed in-car software and interface would transform the look and feel of a car’s interior.
“Apple’s clean and intuitive user interface is a perfect match with Volvo’s Scandinavian Design approach and our focus on fluid functionality,” said Hakan Samuelsson, president and CEO of Volvo Cars.
“iPhone users will feel completely at home in a new Volvo. We have created a wholly-integrated user experience in our large portrait-oriented touch screen that takes the in-car mobile device experience to a new level. That, coupled with the obvious driver safety benefits of an advanced voice control system like Siri, made Apple a perfect match for Volvo.”
The first Volvo car to offer Apple CarPlay will be the new XC90 SUV.